Disarticulated compression socket

ABSTRACT

A disarticulated compression socket configured to secure a residual limb. The disarticulated compression socket may include a rigid socket frame having one or more compression apertures each having one or more disarticulated compression inserts. Each disarticulated compression insert may be coupled with, and responsive to, a compression actuator configured to adjust the disarticulated compression insert individually, or in concert. In one preferred embodiment, at least one compression actuator may be coupled with one, or a plurality of disarticulated compression inserts and further configured to retract and/or expand the coupled disarticulated compression inserts securing the residual limb within said socket frame. Control of the compression actuators may be manual or automatic in response to a signal from a sensor. Additional embodiments may also include one or more lateral release channels configured to accommodate soft tissue expansion of the residual limb as it is compressed and/or secured within the socket frame.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Generally, the inventive technology disclosed herein relates to thefield of prosthetic devices, and more particularly a disarticulatedcompression socket that may be configured to secure a residual limb

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditional prosthetic devices typically operate by securing theresidual limb into a rigid or semi-rigid socket. A socket may commonlyrefer to the portion of a prosthesis that fits around and secures aresidual limb, and to which prosthetic components, such as a foot, areattached. Traditional prosthetic devices, such as sockets, are generallydesigned to stabilize the skeletal components of the residual limb andallow minimal relative movement between the socket and the residuallimb. To effectively support the residual limb and allow for theefficient transfer of mechanical loads from the residual limb to theground, the prosthetic sockets are designed to provide a sufficientsupport to secure the residual limb within the socket, while at the sametime allowing sufficient flexibility to allow for circulation andaccount for other physiological, temporal or environmental changes thatmay affect the shape and/or volume of the residual limb.

One significant drawback of traditional prosthetic sockets is theinability to account for shape and volume fluctuations of the residuallimb. Traditional prosthetic sockets are generally produced in a fixedor static form such that they do not have the ability to accommodatechanges in the residual limb-socket interface. For example, it is knownthat a number or factors may cause a residual limb to change shapeand/or present an altered volumetric profile. Shape and volumefluctuations in a residual limb may be due to many factors, includingbut not limited to: edema, muscle atrophy, weight gain/loss, renaldialysis, salt and water intake, alcohol consumption, menses, changes inwearing time, and activity.

Additionally, the act of wearing a prosthetic socket, in combinationwith the mechanical action of walking, or other movements, causes areduction in the overall volume of a residual limb over time. When thereare shape and volume fluctuations, the residual limb-socket interface iscompromised, which can lead to discomfort, pain, destabilizing motionbetween the socket and residual limb, as well as damage to surroundingsoft tissue.

As such, there exists a need for a non-static prosthetic socket that mayovercome the limitations of prior traditional systems. The currentinvention overcomes the limitations of, and indeed surpasses thefunctionality of traditional static prosthetic socket systems. It istherefore the object of the present invention to provide a simple,versatile, cost effective, non-static prosthetic socket. Specifically,one aim of the present technology is to provide a disarticulatedcompression socket that may be adjustable, for example throughcompression or expansion to efficiently secure a residual limb withinthe body of the socket. Additional aims of the present invention includeproviding a disarticulated compression socket that may allow foranatomically directed compression, as well as features to accommodatesoft tissue expansion.

Accordingly, the objects of the methods and apparatus described hereinaddress each of the aforementioned problems and goals in a practicalmanner. Naturally, further objects of the inventive technology willbecome apparent from the description and drawings below.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

It is the object of the present invention to provide a disarticulatedcompression socket to address the comprehensive concerns outlined above.Additional objects of the current invention may also provide variousdisarticulated prosthetics that may modulate their internal volumewhether by expansion or compression of specified components to moreefficiently and comfortably secure the residual limb within theprosthetic. As one of several preferred embodiments, the inventivetechnology may provide for a disarticulated compression socket having aplurality of disarticulated compression inserts responsive to one ormore compression actuators that may form an efficient large surface areacontact with a residual limb when compressed. An additional aim of thecurrent inventive technology may provide for a disarticulatedcompression socket having a plurality of disarticulated compressioninserts responsive to one or more compression actuators that exert alateral compressive force on a residual limb secured within theprosthetic. This lateral compressive force by the disarticulatedcompression inserts may conform to the laterally positioned musclegroups of a residual limb allowing for a more efficient compression andsecurement of the residual limb in the prosthetic. This lateralcompressive force by may also form an efficient large surface areacontact with a residual limb when laterally compressed.

Another aim of the current inventive technology may provide for adisarticulated compression socket having a plurality of disarticulatedcompression inserts responsive to one or more compression actuators thatexert a lateral compressive force with a swivel action on a residuallimb secured within the prosthetic. This lateral and swiveledcompressive force by the disarticulated compression inserts may conformto the laterally positioned major muscle groups of a residual limb,allowing for a more efficient compression and securement of the residuallimb in the prosthetic. This lateral and swiveled compressive force bymay also form an efficient large surface area contact with a residuallimb when laterally compressed and allowed to swivel to conform to theslope and musculature of a residual limb.

Another aim of the current inventive technology may provide for adisarticulated compression socket having one or more lateral releasechannels that may more efficiently accommodate soft tissue displaced bythe compressive force placed on the residual limb. Such lateral releasechannels may be positioned to conform to major laterally positionedmuscle groups to more efficiently accommodate soft tissue expansion,including muscle as well as natural volume expansion of the residuallimb.

An additional aim of the current inventive technology may provide for anautomatic disarticulated compression socket having a plurality ofdisarticulated compression inserts responsive to one or more compressionactuators that automatically exert a compressive force on a residuallimb secured within the prosthetic in response to a signal from asensor, such as a position or pressure sensor. In one embodiment thesensor may continually take and receive data regarding the position andvolume of the residual limb and signal one or more compression actuatorsto constantly modulate the position of one or more disarticulatedcompression inserts generating an automatically modulating compressiveforce on the residual limb. This modulating compressive force, lateralor otherwise, by the disarticulated compression inserts may be pre-setto conform to the individual user's anatomical presentation or may bemodulated automatically over time or in response to an external stimuli.

The numerous aims, features and functions of the various embodiments ofthe disarticulated compression socket will become readily apparent andbetter understood in view of the description and accompanying drawings.The following description is not intended to limit the scope of thedisarticulated compression socket system including methods of use andcreation as are evidently shown below, but instead merely providesexemplary embodiments for ease of understanding.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The inventive disarticulated compression socket described with referenceto the accompanying drawings which show preferred embodiments accordingto the device described herein. It will be noted that the device asdisclosed in the accompanying drawings is illustrated by way of exampleonly. The various elements and combinations of elements described belowand illustrated in the drawings can be arranged and organizeddifferently to result in embodiments which are still within the spiritand scope of the device described herein.

FIG. 1: is a back view of a disarticulated compression socket having aplurality of compression actuators in one embodiment thereof.

FIG. 2: is a perspective view of a disarticulated compression socketcoupled with an inner liner in one embodiment thereof.

FIG. 3: is a top view of a disarticulated compression socket having aplurality of lateral release channels in one embodiment thereof.

FIG. 4: is a side view of a disarticulated compression socket having aplurality of lateral release apertures in one embodiment thereof;

FIG. 5: is an internal view of a disarticulated compression sockethaving a plurality of internally positioned cords coupled withcompression actuators in one embodiment thereof; and

FIG. 6: is an internal view of a disarticulated compression sockethaving a plurality of internally positioned cords coupled withcompression actuators in one embodiment thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention includes a variety of aspects, which may becombined in different ways. The following descriptions are provided tolist elements and describe some of the embodiments of the presentinvention. These elements are listed with initial embodiments, howeverit should be understood that they may be combined in any manner and inany number to create additional embodiments. The variously describedexamples and preferred embodiments should not be construed to limit thepresent invention to only the explicitly described systems, techniques,and applications. Further, this description should be understood tosupport and encompass descriptions and claims of all the variousembodiments, systems, techniques, methods, devices, and applicationswith any number of the disclosed elements, with each element alone, andalso with any and all various permutations and combinations of allelements in this or any subsequent application.

Generally referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the inventive technology mayinclude a disarticulated compression socket (1). In one embodiment, adisarticulated compression socket (1) may include a socket frame (2). Aspart of the inventive technology, such a socket frame (2) may becustom-formed to accommodate the anatomical shape/musculature of aspecific user's residual limb. Considerations of shape, weightdistribution, volume and movement may all be taken into account informing the socket frame's (2) overall shape, volume and configuration.A socket frame (2) may also be coupled with a joint coupler (9) that maybe configured to secure additional prosthetic components such asartificial limbs, mechanical devices, as well as shock absorbers and thelike.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a socket frame (2) may be a rigid formconfigured to accommodate a residual limb (not shown). One exemplaryembodiment may include a transfemoral socket frame, or a socket frame(2) configured to accommodate a residual limb wherein the knee joint hasbeen removed and the individual still has part of the femur or thighboneintact. Additional embodiments not specifically shown may also becontemplated, which may include, but not be limited to: a transhumeralsocket frame; a transradial socket frame; a transtibial socket frame; asymes socket frame; a hip disarticulation socket frame; a kneedisarticulation socket frame; and a wrist disarticulation socket frameand the like.

As noted above, in a preferred embodiment a socket frame (2) may beformed of a rigid material to accommodate and provide a support for aresidual limb. In one preferred embodiment, a rigid socket frame (2) maybe formed from a variety of materials, including but not limited to:plastic, composites, carbon fiber or even an acrylic laminate with astiffening component such as carbon fiber and/or para-aremid syntheticfiber.

As shown in FIG. 2, in one embodiment the invention may include a socketframe (2) configured to be capable of securing an inner socket (2)through a socket interface (11). In a preferred embodiment an innersocket (2) may be configured to be secured over a residual limb and maybe made of a soft, and/or compressible material that may provide abuffer from a rigid socket frame (2). In certain embodiments this innersocket may be made from a variety of materials, such as plastics,various thermoplastics, rubber, gel, mesh, and silicone as well asvarious appropriate compressible materials known in the art.

As shown in FIG. 3, the inner socket may include a residual limbinterface (10) configured to conform to the specific anatomical shape ofa user's residual limb, and may further have an outer surface configuredto be secured within the interior of the socket frame (2) or socketinterface (11). In one preferred embodiment the residual limb interface(10) may be configured to be closely mated with the user's residual limbproviding support and shock adsorption, while the outer surface isconfigured to be mated with the socket interface (11) on the user'ssocket frame (2) forming a fitted coupling. While initially described asseparate components, in certain embodiments both the socket frame (2)and inner socket (3) may form an integral component. Additionalembodiments not specifically shown may also include coupling devices,such as locks or quick release components on the socket frame (2) and/orinner socket (3) configured to secure the residual limb within the innersocket (3), as well as possibly the inner socket (3) within the socketframe (2) itself.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, in one embodiment the disarticulatedcompression socket (1) may include one or more compression apertures(4). As highlighted in FIG. 3, in one preferred embodiment thedisarticulated compression socket (1) may include a plurality ofcompression apertures (4) that may further be configured so as to be inan approximately opposing arrangement. Again, as shown in the preferredembodiment in FIGS. 1-3, the disarticulated compression socket (1) mayinclude compression apertures (4) that include extended aperturespositioned laterally, or approximately parallel with the residual limbwhen it is secured within the socket frame (2).

As shown in FIGS. 1-4, in one embodiment the disarticulated compressionsocket (1) may include one, or even a plurality of disarticulatedcompression inserts (5). For example, in the preferred embodiment shownin the figures, a disarticulated compression insert (5) may bepositioned within a compression aperture (4). As noted above, while apreferred embodiment may include a disarticulated compression insert(5), in certain other embodiments such inserts may in fact be integralwith the inner socket (3). In this embodiment, these integralcompression inserts may be configured to be sufficiently flexible so asto allow expansion and compression as herein described.

Again referring to FIGS. 1-4, one, or even a plurality of disarticulatedcompression inserts (5) may be positioned within a compression aperture(4) and further secured in position through a compression actuator (7).In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 3, a disarticulatedcompression insert (5) may include an extended compression surface (6).In this embodiment, an extended compression surface (6) may include asurface that is configured to interface with the residual limb and/orinner socket (3). Again, in this embodiment the extended compressionsurface (6) may be formed from a compressible material that extends pastthe surface plane of the socket frame (2) and may form a cushionedinterface with the residual limb and/or inner socket (3). Certainembodiments may include, but are not limited to: a plastic extendedcompression surface; a gel extended compression surface; an air-filledextended compression surface; a foam extended compression surface; and acomposite extended compression surface. Additionally, such an extendedcompression surface (6) may be integral with a disarticulatedcompression insert (5), while in other embodiments they may bedetachable and/or replaceable. Such detachable and/or replaceableembodiments may include apparatus, such as snap, and/or slide fittedlocks to secure the extended compression surface's (6) disarticulatedcompression insert (5). Additionally, in such embodiments, the size,shape and material may be selected and customized so as to conform tothe user's specific anatomical presentation as well as mechanicaloperation needs.

In the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, a compression actuator(7) may be coupled with a disarticulated compression insert (5) in sucha manner as to secure it within the compression aperture. Thiscompression actuator (7) may further be configured to position and/orsecure the disarticulated compression insert (5) such that it may betractable in one, or multiple directions in response to the action ofthe actuator. It should be understood that for purposes of thisinvention a compression actuator may be any apparatus that may beconfigured to adjust the movement of another portion of a disarticulatedcompression socket (1). In a preferred embodiment, a compressionactuator may be any apparatus that may be configured to adjust themovement of the socket frame (2) and/or a compression actuator may beany apparatus that may be configured to adjust or modulate the movementof a disarticulated compression insert (5). Examples of such compressionactuators may include a strap compression actuator; an air pressurecompression actuator; an automatic compression actuator; a twistcompression actuator; and a detachable compression actuator.

As highlighted in FIGS. 5-6, in this preferred embodiment, thecompression actuator (7) may be coupled with the disarticulatedcompression insert (5) through one, or a plurality of, cords (13). Inthis embodiment, innervation of the compression actuator (7) may causethe retraction of the cords (13) which may in-turn, cause the coupleddisarticulated compression inserts (5) to proximally contract generatingan inward compressive force. This compressive force may work to secure aresidual limb within the socket frame (2). In this preferred embodiment,one or more cords (13) may be configured to be positioned within a cordchannel (not shown) within the socket frame (2). Such a cord channel mayinclude a hollow aperture where a cord may be positioned such that itmay be extended and/or retracted. In this embodiment, one or moreportions of the cord (13) may be anchored or represent an anchor cord(13)—such components being in some cases the same. In the preferredembodiment shown in FIGS. 1-2, and 5-6, a cord (13) may be coupled witha compression actuator (7) and further positioned within a cord channelthat traverses the socket frame (3) as well as at least onedisarticulated compression insert (5). The placement of such a cord (13)may couple the disarticulated compression insert (5) to the socket frame(2) while also being responsive to the action of the compressionactuator (7).

Again, as shown in the FIG. 2, a portion of the cord, or anchor cord (8)may be secured to a portion of the socket frame (2). In this embodimentone or more cords (13) may be coupled with a compression actuator (7)and further positioned within a cord channel that traverses the socketframe (3) as well as at least one disarticulated compression insert (5)and then be secured in a position above the disarticulated compressioninsert (5). In this embodiment, innervation of the compression actuator(7) may cause retraction of the cord (13), which in this embodiment hassufficiently elastic properties to allow it to be stretched in responseto the compression actuator (7). The anchor cord (8) being secured, inthis embodiment by the socket frame (2) may not retract, thus acting asan opposing force to the compression actuator (7) which may effectuatethe cords (13) stretching and in turn, the movement of thedisarticulated compression insert (5).

Referring specifically to FIGS. 1 and 2, in one preferred embodiment acompression actuator (7) may be laterally coupled with thedisarticulated compression insert (5) through one or more laterallypositioned cords (13). In this embodiment, innervation of thecompression actuator (7) may cause the retraction of the cords (13)which may in-turn cause the coupled disarticulated compression inserts(5) to proximally contract generating an inward lateral compressiveforce, where “lateral” in this instance may mean “approximatelyparallel” with the residual limb thereby generating a large surface areaconnection when it is secured within the socket frame (2). Lateral mayalso include the swivel action of the distal ends of a disarticulatedcompression insert (5). Such swivel action may allow the disarticulatedcompression insert (5) to conform to the surface of a sloping residuallimb, thereby generating a large surface area connection.

In another embodiment, a compression actuator (7) may be coupled withthe disarticulated compression insert (5) through one or a plurality ofstraps (not shown). In this embodiment, innervation of the compressionactuator (7) may cause the retraction of the straps which may in-turn,cause the coupled disarticulated compression inserts (5) to proximallycontract generating an inward compressive force. This compressive forcemay work to secure a residual limb within the socket frame (2).

In another embodiment, a twist compression actuator (7) may be coupledwith the disarticulated compression insert (5) through one or aplurality of cords (13) and/or straps (not shown). In this embodiment,twisting of the twist compression actuator (7) may cause a winding-up ofthe cord(s) (13 and/or straps or other components causing the coupleddisarticulated compression inserts (5) to proximally contract generatingan inward compressive force. This compressive force may work to secure aresidual limb within the socket frame (2).

In another embodiment, an air pressure compression actuator (7) may becoupled with the disarticulated compression insert (5) through one or aplurality of pressurized and/or hydraulic absorbers. In this embodiment,innervation of the compression actuator (7) may cause the expansion ofthe pressurized and/or hydraulic absorbers which may in-turn cause thecoupled disarticulated compression inserts (5) to proximally contractgenerating an inward compressive force. This compressive force may workto secure a residual limb within the socket frame (2).

Additional embodiments may include a compression actuator (7) that maybe detached from the disarticulated compression socket (1) and perhapsseparately stored when not in use. In additional embodiments, acompression actuator (7) may be coupled with one or more disarticulatedcompression inserts (5) through one or more cords (13). In one suchembodiment, a compression actuator (7) may be coupled with a pluralityof disarticulated compression insert (5) through one or more cords (13).In this embodiment, innervation of the compression actuator (7) maycause the retraction of the cords (13) which may in-turn cause thecoupled disarticulated compression inserts (5) to proximally contract inunison, generating an inward compressive force. This compressive forcemay work to secure a residual limb within the socket frame (2). Incertain embodiments, multiple compression actuators (7) may be employedallowing varying levels of inward compressive force to be generated fromthe action of the disarticulated compression inserts (5). Suchembodiments may be particularly useful in forming a customized fittedinterface between the socket frame (2) and the residual limb and/orinner socket (3) that may conform to the user's specific anatomicalpresentation as well as mechanical operation needs. Naturally, any suchcompression actuator (7) may also be de-innervated, or releasedalleviating the inward compressive force of any coupled disarticulatedcompression insert (5). In this manner, a user may select the optimalcompressive force he or she wishes to apply to the residual limb by eachof the disarticulated compression inserts (5) through modulation of thevarious compression actuators (7).

As shown in FIGS. 1-4, one embodiment of the inventive technology mayinclude lateral release channel (12) to accommodate the expansion ofsoft tissue as compressive force is applied to the residual limb. In onepreferred embodiment, a socket frame (2) may be configured to include aplurality of lateral release channels (12) configured to accommodatesoft tissue expansion of the residual limb when disarticulatedcompression inserts (5) are compressed to secure the residual limbwithin the socket frame (2). In certain preferred embodiments, suchlateral release channels (12) may include expanded channels that extendlaterally along the socket frame (2), while in other embodiments, suchlateral release channels (12) may include apertures in the socket frame(2), such as those described in FIG. 4. These apertures may also extendlaterally along the socket frame (2). In some embodiments such lateralrelease channels may be customized to conform to the anatomicalpresentation of the residual limb, including major muscle groupings aswell as considerations of high, and low pressure points along theresidual limb interface (10) and/or socket interface (11). Additionalembodiments may also include an inner socket (3) having one or morelateral release channels (12). Such lateral release channels (12) maycorrespond to lateral release channels (12) on the socket frame (2) ormay be positioned independently based on the anatomical presentation ofthe residual limb, including major muscle groupings as well asconsiderations of high and low pressure points along the residual limbinterface (10) and/or socket interface (11).

As shown in FIG. 1, one embodiment of the invention may include anautomatically adjusting compression prosthetic. In this preferredembodiment, one or more sensors (14), such as a position and/or pressuresensor, may be positioned on the prosthetic and further configured tosense the position or volume of the residual limb. In the embodimentshown in FIG. 1, a sensor (14) may be secured to the socket frame (2).In some embodiments a sensor (14) may be integrally connected to thesocket frame (2) or may be attachable and detachable. Additionalembodiments may include a sensor that may be coupled with one or moredisarticulated compression inserts (5), cords (13) or even compressionactuators (7).

In one preferred embodiment one or more sensors (14) may be configuredto detect the position of the residual limb within the socket frame (2)and send a signal, such as a wired or wireless signal, to a compressionactuator (7) causing its innervation. As a result of this innervation, acompression actuator (7) may adjust the position of any coupleddisarticulated compression inserts (5) in response to a signal from saidsensor. For example, in response to a signal that the residual limbinterface (10) and socket interface (11) are in a sub-optimal position,the sensor may send a signal to a compression actuator (7) causing it tomodulate the position of any coupled disarticulated compression inserts(5) through decreasing compression through expansion of any coupleddisarticulated compression inserts (5), or increasing compression on theresidual limb.

In certain embodiments a plurality of sensors may be used to innervate aplurality of individual compression actuators (7). In this preferredembodiment, a plurality of disarticulated compression inserts (5) mayeach be independently modulated in response to an external stimuli, suchas position or volume of the residual limb within a socket frame (2) andthe like. Additional embodiments may include one or more pre-set sensors(14) and/or compression actuators (7). In this preferred embodiment, oneor more compression actuators (7) may be pre-set to adjust thecompressive force of the disarticulated compression insert (5), forexample in response to a signal from a sensor (14). An individual usermay pre-set one or more compression actuators (7) to automaticallyconform to the user's specific anatomical presentation as well asmechanical operation needs. Such pre-settings may be further configuredto modulate in response to environmental stimuli, such as the positionor volume of the residual limb within a socket frame (2), or on atimer-based system.

As noted above, in certain embodiments, the inventive technology mayaccommodate and secure a residual limb within a disarticulatedcompression socket (1). In a preferred embodiment compression, lateralor otherwise, may result in the reduction of the volume of the residualinterface (10) as shown in FIG. 3. As part of the invention,compression, including lateral compression of the coupled disarticulatedcompression inserts (5) may include, but not be limited to: compressionof the coupled disarticulated compression inserts (5) resulting in atleast a 5% reduction in the volume of the residual limb interface (10);compression of the coupled disarticulated compression inserts (5)resulting in at least a 10% reduction in the volume of the residual limbinterface (10); compression of the coupled disarticulated compressioninserts (5) resulting in at least a 15% reduction in the volume of theresidual limb interface (10); compression of the coupled disarticulatedcompression inserts (5) resulting in at least a 20% reduction in thevolume of the residual limb interface (10); compression of the coupleddisarticulated compression inserts (5) resulting in at least a 25%reduction in the volume of the residual limb interface (10); andcompression of the coupled disarticulated compression inserts (5)resulting in at least a 30% reduction in the volume of the residual limbinterface (10).

In addition, the inventive technology may accommodate a residual limbwithin a disarticulated compression socket (1). In a preferredembodiment, expansion, lateral or otherwise, may result in the increaseof the volume of the residual limb interface (10) as shown in FIG. 3. Aspart of the invention, expansion, including lateral expansion of thecoupled disarticulated compression inserts (5) may include, but not belimited to: expansion of the coupled disarticulated compression inserts(5) resulting in at least a 5% increase in the volume of the residuallimb interface (10); expansion of the coupled disarticulated compressioninserts (5) resulting in at least a 10% increase in the volume of theresidual limb interface (10); expansion of the coupled disarticulatedcompression inserts (5) resulting in at least a 15% increase in thevolume of the residual limb interface (10); expansion of the coupleddisarticulated compression inserts (5) resulting in at least a 20%increase in the volume of the residual limb interface (10); expansion ofthe coupled disarticulated compression inserts (5) resulting in at leasta 25% increase in the volume of the residual limb interface (10); andexpansion of the coupled disarticulated compression inserts (5)resulting in at least a 30% increase in the volume of the residual limbinterface (10).

As shown in FIG. 4, in one embodiment a one or more disarticulatedcompression inserts (5) may be sufficiently flexible so as toaccommodate and/or more efficiently conform to the specific anatomicalshape of a user's residual limb. In one preferred embodiment, adisarticulated compression insert (5) may include a hinge or joint (15).In other embodiments, such hinge action may be formed by couplingseparate components of a disarticulated compression insert (5) in such amanner as to form a flexing or hinge movement.

In this embodiment, a hinged disarticulated compression insert (5) maybe configured to be hinged laterally which may allow the disarticulatedcompression insert (5) to better conform to laterally extended andsloping surfaces such as those often found on residual limbs. In anotherembodiment, a hinged disarticulated compression insert (5) may beconfigured to be hinged horizontally which may allow the disarticulatedcompression insert (5) to better conform to extended protuberances orirregular surfaces and the like on a residual limb. In still otherembodiments, disarticulated compression insert (5) mat be hinged bothlaterally and horizontally.

Naturally, all embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative andshould not be construed to limit the scope of the inventive technologyconsistent with the broader inventive principles disclosed. As may beeasily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts of the presentinventive technology may be embodied in a variety of ways. It generallyinvolves systems, methods, techniques as well as devices to accomplish adisarticulated compression socket and the like. In this application, themethods and apparatus for the aforementioned systems are disclosed aspart of the results shown to be achieved by the various devicesdescribed and as steps which are inherent to utilization. They aresimply the natural result of utilizing the devices as intended anddescribed. In addition, while some devices are disclosed, it should beunderstood that these not only accomplish certain methods but also canbe varied in a number of ways. Importantly, as to all of the foregoing,all of these facets should be understood to be encompassed by thisdisclosure.

While the invention has been described in connection with a preferredembodiment, it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention tothe particular form set forth, but on the contrary, it is intended tocover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may beincluded within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by thestatements of invention. As can be easily understood from the foregoing,the basic concepts of the present invention may be embodied in a varietyof ways. It involves both techniques as well as devices to accomplishthe appropriate system. In this application, the techniques aredisclosed as part of the results shown to be achieved by the variousdevices described and as steps which are inherent to utilization. Theyare simply the natural result of utilizing the devices as intended anddescribed. In addition, while some devices are disclosed, it should beunderstood that these not only accomplish certain methods but also canbe varied in a number of ways. Importantly, as to all of the foregoing,all of these facets should be understood to be encompassed by thisdisclosure.

The discussion included in this application is intended to serve as abasic description. The reader should be aware that the specificdiscussion may not explicitly describe all embodiments possible; manyalternatives are implicit. It also may not fully explain the genericnature of the invention and may not explicitly show how each feature orelement can actually be representative of a broader function or of agreat variety of alternative or equivalent elements. Again, these areimplicitly included in this disclosure. Where the invention may bedescribed in some instances in method-oriented terminology, each elementof the claims corresponds to a device and vice versa. Apparatus claimsmay not only be included for the device described, but also method orprocess claims may be included to address the functions the inventionand each element performs. Neither the description nor the terminologyis intended to limit the scope of the claims that will be included inany subsequent patent application.

It should also be understood that a variety of changes may be madewithout departing from the essence of the invention. Such changes arealso implicitly included in the description. They still fall within thescope of this invention. A broad disclosure encompassing both theexplicit embodiment(s) shown, the great variety of implicit alternativeembodiments, and the broad methods or processes and the like areencompassed by this disclosure and may be relied upon when drafting anyclaims. It should be understood that such language changes and broaderor more detailed claiming may be accomplished at a later date (such asby any required deadline) or in the event the applicant subsequentlyseeks a patent filing based on this filing. With this understanding, thereader should be aware that this disclosure is to be understood tosupport any subsequently filed patent application that may seekexamination of as broad a base of claims as deemed within theapplicant's right and may be designed to yield a patent coveringnumerous aspects of the invention both independently and as an overallsystem.

Further, each of the various elements of the invention and claims mayalso be achieved in a variety of manners. Additionally, when used orimplied, an element is to be understood as encompassing individual aswell as plural structures that may or may not be physically connected.This disclosure should be understood to encompass each such variation,be it a variation of an embodiment of any apparatus embodiment, a methodor process embodiment, or even merely a variation of any element ofthese. Particularly, it should be understood that as the disclosurerelates to elements of the invention, the words for each element may beexpressed by equivalent apparatus terms or method terms—even if only thefunction or result is the same. Such equivalent, broader, or even moregeneric terms should be considered to be encompassed in the descriptionof each element or action. Such terms can be substituted where desiredto make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this inventionis entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that allactions may be expressed as a means for taking that action or as anelement which causes that action. Similarly, each physical elementdisclosed should be understood to encompass a disclosure of the actionwhich that physical element facilitates. Regarding this last aspect, asbut one example, the disclosure of a “support” should be understood toencompass disclosure of the act of “supporting”—whether explicitlydiscussed or not—and, conversely, were there effectively disclosure ofthe act of “supporting”, such a disclosure should be understood toencompass disclosure of a “supporting method and/or technique, and/ordevice” and even a “means for supporting.” Such changes and alternativeterms are to be understood to be explicitly included in the description.

Any patents, publications, or other references mentioned in thisapplication for patent, such as in the specification or an IDS arehereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Any prioritycase(s) claimed by this application is hereby appended and herebyincorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In addition, as toeach term used it should be understood that unless its utilization inthis application is inconsistent with a broadly supportinginterpretation, common dictionary definitions should be understood asincorporated for each term and all definitions, alternative terms, andsynonyms such as contained in the Random House Webster's UnabridgedDictionary, second edition are hereby incorporated herein by referencein their entirety. Finally, all references listed in the list ofReferences To Be Incorporated By Reference In Accordance With The PatentApplication or other information disclosure statement and the like filedwith the application are hereby appended and hereby incorporated hereinby reference in their entirety, however, as to each of the above, to theextent that such information or statements incorporated by referencemight be considered inconsistent with the patenting of this/theseinvention(s) such statements are expressly not to be considered as madeby the applicant(s).

Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to have support to claim andmake a statement of invention to at least: i) each of the methods and/orapparatus for providing a disarticulated compression socket as hereindisclosed and described, ii) the related methods disclosed anddescribed, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations ofeach of these devices and methods, iv) those alternative designs whichaccomplish each of the functions shown as are disclosed and described,v) those alternative designs and methods which accomplish each of thefunctions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which is disclosedand described, vi) each feature, component, and step shown as separateand independent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced by thevarious systems or components disclosed, viii) the resulting productsproduced by such systems or components, ix) each system, method, andelement shown or described as now applied to any specific field ordevices mentioned, x) methods and apparatuses substantially as describedhereinbefore and with reference to any of the accompanying examples, xi)the various combinations and permutations of each of the elementsdisclosed, xii) each potentially dependent claim or concept as adependency on each and every one of the independent claims or conceptspresented, and xiii) all inventions described herein.

With regard to claims whether now or later presented for examination, itshould be understood that for practical reasons and so as to avoid greatexpansion of the examination burden, the applicant may at any timepresent only initial claims or perhaps only initial claims with onlyinitial dependencies. The office and any third persons interested inpotential scope of this or subsequent applications should understandthat broader claims may be presented at a later date in this case, in acase claiming the benefit of this case, or in any continuation in spiteof any preliminary amendments, other amendments, claim language, orarguments presented, thus throughout the pendency of any case there isno intention to disclaim or surrender any potential subject matter. Itshould be understood that if or when broader claims are presented, suchmay require that any relevant prior art that may have been considered atany prior time may need to be re-visited since it is possible that tothe extent any amendments, claim language, or arguments presented inthis or any subsequent application are considered as made to avoid suchprior art, such reasons may be eliminated by later presented claims orthe like. Both the examiner and any person otherwise interested inexisting or later potential coverage, or considering if there has at anytime been any possibility of an indication of disclaimer or surrender ofpotential coverage, should be aware that no such surrender or disclaimeris ever intended or ever exists in this or any subsequent application.Limitations such as arose in Hakim v. Cannon Avent Group, PLC, 479 F.3d1313 (Fed. Cir 2007), or the like are expressly not intended in this orany subsequent related matter. In addition, support should be understoodto exist to the degree required under new matter laws—including but notlimited to European Patent Convention Article 123(2) and United StatesPatent Law 35 USC 132 or other such laws—to permit the addition of anyof the various dependencies or other elements presented under oneindependent claim or concept as dependencies or elements under any otherindependent claim or concept. In drafting any claims at any time whetherin this application or in any subsequent application, it should also beunderstood that the applicant has intended to capture as full and broada scope of coverage as legally available. To the extent thatinsubstantial substitutes are made, to the extent that the applicant didnot in fact draft any claim so as to literally encompass any particularembodiment, and to the extent otherwise applicable, the applicant shouldnot be understood to have in any way intended to or actuallyrelinquished such coverage as the applicant simply may not have beenable to anticipate all eventualities; one skilled in the art, should notbe reasonably expected to have drafted a claim that would have literallyencompassed such alternative embodiments.

Further, if or when used, the use of the transitional phrase“comprising” is used to maintain the “open-end” claims herein, accordingto traditional claim interpretation. Thus, unless the context requiresotherwise, it should be understood that the term “comprise” orvariations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, are intended to implythe inclusion of a stated element or step or group of elements or stepsbut not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of elementsor steps. Such terms should be interpreted in their most expansive formso as to afford the applicant the broadest coverage legally permissible.It should be understood that this application also provides support forany combination of elements in the claims and even incorporates anydesired proper antecedent basis for certain claim combinations such aswith combinations of method, apparatus, process, and the like claims.

Any claims set forth at any time are hereby incorporated by reference aspart of this description of the invention, and the applicant expresslyreserves the right to use all of or a portion of such incorporatedcontent of such claims as additional description to support any of orall of the claims or any element or component thereof, and the applicantfurther expressly reserves the right to move any portion of or all ofthe incorporated content of such claims or any element or componentthereof from the description into the claims or vice-versa as necessaryto define the matter for which protection is sought by this applicationor by any subsequent continuation, division, or continuation-in-partapplication thereof, or to obtain any benefit of, reduction in feespursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws, rules, or regulations ofany country or treaty, and such content incorporated by reference shallsurvive during the entire pendency of this application including anysubsequent continuation, division, or continuation-in-part applicationthereof or any reissue or extension thereon. The inventive subjectmatter is to include, but certainly not be limited as, a systemsubstantially as herein described with reference to any one or more ofthe Figures and Description (including the following: for example, theprocess according to any claims and further comprising any of the stepsas shown in any Figures, separately, in any combination or permutation).

Finally, Applicant reserves the right to seek additional design patentprotection over the claimed invention, such that the drawings are fullyenabled so as to allow one of ordinary skill in the art to know that theclaimed design was in Applicant's possession at the time of filing. Assuch, it should be noted that any broken lines are to be included forthe purpose of illustrating environmental matter and form no part of theclaimed design should such become necessary.

What is claimed is:
 1. A disarticulated compression socket comprising:at least one inner socket configured to secure a residual limb through aresidual limb interface having one or more lateral release channels; asocket frame configured to be capable of securing said inner socketthrough a socket interface; at least four apertures on said socket framewherein said compression apertures are configured to oppose each otheron said socket frame; at least one disarticulated compression insertpositioned within each of said opposing compression apertures; at leastone extended compression surface coupled with each of saiddisarticulated compression inserts; at least two compression actuatorswherein each of said compression actuators is coupled with at least twosaid disarticulated compression inserts adjacent to one another throughone or more cords secured lengthwise through said compression insertswherein said compression actuators are configured to retract saidlengthwise secured cords so as to compress said coupled disarticulatedcompression inserts securing said residual limb within said socketframe; and a plurality of release channels configured to accommodatesoft tissue expansion of said residual limb when said disarticulatedcompression inserts are compressed to secure said residual limb withinsaid socket frame; and wherein said disarticulated compression socket asconfigured above allows a 5-10% reduction in the volume of said residuallimb interface.
 2. A disarticulated compression socket as described inclaim 1 wherein said lateral release channels comprise lateral releaseapertures.
 3. A disarticulated compression socket as described in claim1 wherein said disarticulated compression inserts comprises hingeddisarticulated compression insert.
 4. A compression prostheticcomprising: at least one inner socket configured to secure a residuallimb through a residual limb interface; a socket frame configured to becapable of securing said inner socket through a socket interface; aplurality of opposing compression apertures on said socket frame; atleast one disarticulated compression insert positioned within each ofsaid opposing compression apertures; at least two compression actuatorswherein each of said compression actuators is coupled with at least twoof said disarticulated compression inserts located adjacent to oneanother and wherein each of said compression actuators are configured toprovide lengthwise compression through said coupled adjacentdisarticulated compression inserts securing said residual limb withinsaid socket frame; and at least one release channel configured toaccommodate soft tissue expansion of said residual limb when saiddisarticulated compression inserts are compressed to secure saidresidual limb within said socket frame and wherein said compressionprosthetic as configured above allows a 5-10% reduction in the volume ofsaid residual limb interface.
 5. A compression prosthetic as describedin claim 4 wherein said compression actuators are coupled with at leasttwo of said disarticulated compression inserts located adjacent to oneanother through a lengthwise secured cord.
 6. A compression prostheticas described in claim 4 wherein said release channels comprise releaseapertures.
 7. A compression prosthetic as described in claim 4 whereinsaid disarticulated compression inserts comprises hinged disarticulatedcompression inserts.
 8. A compression prosthetic comprising: a socketframe configured to be capable of securing a residual limb; a pluralityof opposing compression apertures on said socket frame; at least onedisarticulated compression insert positioned within each of saidopposing compression apertures; at least one compression actuatorcoupled lengthwise through one or more disarticulated compressioninserts wherein said compression actuator is configured to providelengthwise compression through said coupled disarticulated compressioninserts securing said residual limb within said socket frame; and aplurality of release channels configured to accommodate soft tissueexpansion of said residual limb when said disarticulated compressioninserts are lengthwise compressed to secure said residual limb withinsaid socket frame; and wherein said compression prosthetic as configuredabove allows a 5-10% reduction in the volume of said residual limbinterface.